In this mystery we too like Mary gaze in wonder at the Christ child. For the first time in history heaven comes down on earth. Human beings will gaze down on heaven itself. The angels sing joyfully and announce the good news to the Shepherds. They make haste joyfully to see the wonders they have been told. The little infant seeks us and beckons us to come to him joyfully. We all seek love, and as humans we seek to embrace love. Love has become incarnate and dwelt among us, love has become personal in a little one. We all seek love in different ways and forms, but true love has come in the human form. Our Saviour has come fragile and in need to be embraced, he has come in a form we can reach out and take in our own arms. God has become a baby so that we might encircle him in our arms. Today create heaven on earth in your homes, your work, your community. Be a missionary of peace in that place, and that love which radiates from your encounter with the little Christ child will reach others through you. Like Mary, let your home or work become a place of encounter for others of love and peace through you. Wherever God is, there is heaven on earth, even in that darkest stables of life.

In this mystery we hear Mary’s song of thanksgiving, the Magnificat. “For he who is mighty has done great things for me,” Mary sings in the presence of her cousin Elizabeth. In the ups and downs of life, we can get tired and wonder what life is really about. Have you today thanked God for the ability to breath and to see? When we arose from our beds this morning, did you thank God for the ability to sleep well and arise alone from your bed? Have you ever thanked God for the ability to dress yourself alone, to walk from your bedroom to your kitchen? To be able to take that fresh glass of water or cup of tea. To feel the warmth of central heating or the simplicity of running hot water in able to wash. Many people this morning may not wake from sleep, may not be able to see, not walk for the first time, or make that little journey to the bathroom or kitchen. Many may not even be able to see the dull wintry morning from their window. God is good and has been good to us, he has done great things for me. Be thankful this day for the small things with Mary.

In this mystery, we hear the words of the Angel Gabriel to Our Blessed Lady, “The Lord is with you.”

As Catholics we hear these words at the beginning and end of every Mass. These words in the scriptures remind the hearer that he/she is called to play an important role in God’s plan of salvation for the world. When Moses was called to lead the people from slavery in Egypt, God told him, “I will be with you.” When Joshua was called to lead the people into the promised land, God told him, “I will be with you.” Mary stands in the shadow of her ancestors as we do. Every morning when we awake we are asked to take on the trails of the day ahead. Often, we feel inadequate, tired, fearful and not prepared. God however challenges each of us to leave our comfort zones this day and rely on him more and more. You may feel tired with the challenges of daily life, work, family, health or community. One thing however is all we need, and it is promised, “the Lord is with you.” Say yes like Mary.

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